Playing Outside: Why it’s important
Playing outside is beneficial for children, regardless of the weather. At Sunny Days, we believe there is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing! Scientific studies have shown that outdoor play improves children’s health, and allows children to develop self-confidence, independence, and self-esteem. Children also become aware of their own capabilities, boundaries, and challenges in their play. In addition to this, it reduces children’s screen time and helps you spend quality time together. Nature is all around us.
Connecting with nature doesn’t always require travelling far, especially in Wiltshire. You and your family can enjoy nature even in a school playground, back garden, or a tabletop garden. You can find nearby parks that can be accessed by walking or public transportation. We are so fortunate in our towns as public green spaces have facilities that cater to people of all ages and abilities. Playing outside & exploring nature is for all children!
Introducing your baby to nature
The earlier you introduce your baby to nature, the more likely they are to develop a lifelong love for the outdoors. You can take a walk through the trees using a carrier or pushchair and throw down a blanket on the grass or soft earth. Talk to your baby while they enjoy the fresh breezes, bird songs, forest smells, and plant textures. You can also give them some tummy time outside and blow bubbles for them to reach and watch glisten in the sun.
Exploring with toddlers and pre-schooler children
Children learn and develop from every experience they have. Here are some of the fun outdoor activities we offer to help support your child’s development. Why not try some at home?
Nature sculptures: Collect twigs, leaves, cones, rocks, and other natural items and stick them into a play dough base to create interesting sculptures. Ask your child to observe and describe the patterns they see with the different items.
Mud play: Allow your child to play in the mud with old pots, pans, utensils, and household tools to develop their senses and motor skills.
Family bike rides or walks: Explore your local neighbourhood or find a new park to visit. Bicycle trailers are a fantastic way to get around or let your child ride or scoot, if they are capable, to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors. Describe what you see along the way and talk about the weather to help your child learn new words and engage all their senses.
Outdoor story time: Find a shady spot to read books with your child outdoors. Select books that talk about the natural environment this helps your child make connections and understand the world around them.
Outdoor playdates: Meet up with friends outside to build social connections for both children and adults. This usually results in children playing with other children of mixed ages and abilities, encouraging them to try and learn new experiences.
Healthy benefits of outdoor play
At Sunny Days Nurseries, our children are outside every day. We know that spending time outdoors provides numerous benefits for children, it also has a positive impact on their physical and mental development. Children who engage in outdoor activities and enjoy nature are:
Physically healthier: Playing outside is more physically demanding than indoor activities, and it is crucial for children to have daily opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. Studies have revealed that spending more time outdoors is associated with improved motor development, lower obesity rates, and reduced risks of near-sightedness (myopia). Moreover, safe sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining good health.
More engaged in learning: Outdoor play encourages children’s curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking abilities. Research has shown that children who spend more time exploring nature have better learning outcomes.
More positive in behaviour: Spending time in natural settings can reduce anger and aggression in children and improve their impulse control. This is especially significant when normal routines change for children.
Mentally healthier: Spending time in nature can reduce stress and depression in people of all ages. Children who spend time outdoors also show an increase in focus and a reduction in symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
It is important that children who attend our settings are provided with the correct type of clothing that is appropriate for all weather events, as we take advantage of outdoor play, especially when there are puddles or in the snow! We have some quality, learning environments for our children to play outside.
We are also pleased to announce that thanks to funding that we have received from the Armed Forces Families Fund: Early Years programme, the Lyneham Nursery and Preschool garden is being redesigned and re-developed as we speak! We are super excited about this project and will keep you updated on a regular basis. So, as we move into Autumn, grab your wellington boots and rain mack and get out and about in the great outdoors!
